5 Shady Retro Bars In India That Are Home To All Things Illegal

If you're someone who's had enough of paying for overpriced drinks and acting all pseudo sophisticated every time you go out drinking, you've landed up at just the right place! Whether it be Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata or Bengaluru, each of the top metropolis of India has a dark side that almost never meets the public eye. And the best way to explore the underbelly? Find the shadiest and sleaziest bar in town and drink the night away!

Here are the top five shadiest retro bars in India where you will find everything that's illegal. Yes, everything! If you know what I'm talking about!

What to expect: A relatively newer entrant on Paharganj's buzzing nightlife, Barcode has become a place to swear by in no time. Come dusk and the neon signboard lights up, attracting thrill seekers who flock here for cheap liquor and live music and dance performances. For the price and setting, the place surprisingly, also serves decent food and has a hospitable staff.

What to expect: Even though it might not meet the public eye, Kolkata's underbelly is quite unlike any other in the country. Paris Bar & Restaurant happens to be one of the top places if you want to experience this eclectic yet mysterious world. The dingy dance bar is located in the heart of New Market and is best known for its blaring music, flashy setting and below average food. Despite all of it, Paris Bar is definitely a must visit if you're fan of all things shady.

What to expect: Mumbai and shady dance bars have been going hand in hand since time immemorial. The city has had a love-hate, on and off relation with dance bars. However, bars like Topaz have managed to stand the test of time and continue to attract passionate alcoholics, generation after generation.

What to expect: If you're someone who thinks Bengaluru's nightlife is all about its glittery breweries, you have been missing out on something epic. The IT Capital is home to some of the least talked about dingy bars in the country and Blue Heaven Bar & Restaurant is easily the best out of them all. Trippy neon lights, smoke filled air, booze at throwaway prices and dancing away the night on b-grade Hindi music – it all happens here!

What to expect: A haven for shady bar lovers, Gurugram's Sahara Mall is the stuff legends are made off. The top floor of the mall is lined with several clubs that are infamous for all things illegal. Buffed up bouncers can often be seen trying to lure in customers, promising exotic women and happy hour deals in the same breath. Head straight into Prison and trust me when I say this, you will experience a whole new world altogether.

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